Big Cat Green Island – Full Day Reef and Island Experience
Big Cat Green Island Tour/ Day Trip
The Big Cat Green Island full day tour is the ultimate way to experience one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most beautiful coral cays. Departing Cairns at 9:00am, this relaxed yet activity-rich day gives you maximum time on Green Island to snorkel the reef, explore rainforest boardwalks, enjoy island dining and soak up the tropical atmosphere.
Perfect for first-time visitors, families and anyone wanting a complete reef and island experience, this full-day tour combines comfort, flexibility and iconic scenery ,all just a short cruise from Cairns.
Why You Will Love this Great Barrier Reef Island Tour
- Full day on Green Island with a 9:00am departure
- Snorkel directly from the island’s fringing reef
- Explore lush rainforest walking tracks
- Choose optional reef viewing activities
- Relax on white sandy beaches
- Family-friendly and suitable for all confidence levels
- Comfortable cruise with experienced local crew
FAQs
How long do we spend on Green Island?
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Can families join this tour?
Is lunch included?
What time do we return to Cairns?
Book Now
Enjoy a full day of reef, rainforest and island relaxation.
Book Big Cat Green Island (9:00am) today with Hot Getaways.
Highlights
Big Cat Green Island Highlights
- 9:00am departure from Cairns
- Several hours free time on Green Island
- Snorkelling straight off the beach
- Rainforest boardwalk and island trails
- Optional glass bottom boat or semi-submarine
- On-island dining options
- Air-conditioned catamaran cruise
Itinerary
Big Cat Green Island Day Overview
Morning – Cruise to Green Island
Check in at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and depart at 9:00am. Enjoy a smooth cruise across the Coral Sea, arriving at Green Island mid-morning.
Midday – Reef and Island Time
Spend your day snorkelling the reef, walking the rainforest tracks, relaxing on the beach or joining optional reef activities.
Afternoon – Island Relaxation
Enjoy lunch on the island, swim in the calm waters or simply unwind before cruising back to Cairns late afternoon.
No need to wait in line for your boarding pass! Simply head straight to the vessel, guests will receive a digital boarding pass with all the details the afternoon before departure. Boarding commences at 8.15am with final boarding at 8.45am from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and tour returns at 5pm.
Included
What’s Included
- Return Big Cat cruise from Cairns
- Full day on Green Island
- Use of island facilities and walking tracks
- Friendly onboard crew
- National park and reef levies
Optional Extras
Optional Extras
- Snorkel equipment hire
- Glass bottom boat tour
- Semi-submarine tour
- Seawalker helmet dive
- Parasailing
- Lunch options
What to bring
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Refillable water bottle
- Camera or phone
How to get there
How to Get There
All Big Cat Green Island tours depart from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, located on the Cairns Esplanade in the city centre.
Getting to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal
- The terminal is within walking distance of most Cairns city accommodation
- Public buses, taxis and rideshare services operate frequently
- Paid parking is available nearby for guests driving themselves
Check-In Details
- Please arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure
- Check in at the Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises counter
- Your booking confirmation will include exact check-in instructions and departure time
Important Information
Important Information
Weather & Sea Conditions
- Tours operate in most weather conditions
- In the event of unsafe conditions, itineraries may be adjusted or rescheduled
- Sea conditions can vary — guests prone to motion sickness may wish to take precautions
Swimming & Snorkelling
- Snorkelling is optional and suitable for most confidence levels
- Flotation devices are available
- Non-swimmers can enjoy glass bottom boat or semi-submarine experiences
Stinger Season
- Marine stingers may be present during warmer months
- Stinger suits are recommended and available for hire
- Always follow crew instructions and safety signage
Accessibility & Fitness
- The tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels
- Some walking tracks on the island are flat and well-maintained
- Please advise any mobility, medical or dietary requirements at the time of booking
What to Expect on the Day
- Free time on Green Island to explore at your own pace
- Optional activities can be booked in advance or on the day (subject to availability)
- On-island cafés and facilities are available
What If Plans Change?
- Itineraries may vary due to weather, sea conditions or operational requirements
- Safety is always the top priority
- Guests will be informed of any changes as early as possible
Environmental Care
- Green Island is a protected national park
- Please use reef-safe sunscreen and follow all environmental guidelines
- Help protect the reef by avoiding contact with coral and marine life






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